Gather goodies for dorm

I sent my boy to college last fall with neatly packed boxes and lots of dorm-room must-haves. Of course, all of the accessories returned in a jumbled mess, but at least this year I know what really is a must for stocking the dorm room.

On my list? Snacks like popcorn, soup and cereal, and a few microwaveable dishes to stave off late-night hunger. A mini-medical kit with Tylenol, antibiotic ointment, sunscreen, tweezers and Band-Aids. Detergent, stain stick and dryer sheets along with a mesh laundry bag so that if wet clothes stay in the closet for weeks they don’t mildew.

Start shopping now to avoid the panic mode for getting your college freshman ready for the dorm. Check out today’s Crave picks for some college-bound options.

OK, so maybe you don’t need to encourage the long-haul college plan. But still, it’s good for a giggle. Enjoy College sign, $22 at Dot and Stell’s. 2396 N. Mount Juliet Road, Mount Juliet, 615-773-0980.

Even with a cafeteria nearby, students always want snacks for late night. Soup, popcorn and other goodies are golden at 2 a.m. Microwavable soup mug, BPA free, $9.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Dorm room walls are usually a lovely concrete, so stock up on easy-to-remove options for hanging whatever art or accessories your college freshman wants in the room. By Commando, Damage-Free Hanging holds strongly and removes cleanly. Holds 3 pounds. $3.49 each at Bed, Bath & Beyond.

I love giving these to friends who are die-hard SEC fans. They always want to start their babies off right! Baby board books, $10.95 at Red Tulip, 1483 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, 615-206-1395.